Methodist College Belfast to make uniform "comfortable" for transgender pupils

By Grainne McKinney

27 March 2019

School has launched a consultation on its uniform policy

A grammar school in South Belfast will review its uniform policy to make it more inclusive for transgender pupils.

Methodist College will consult with parents on a number of issues, including ensuring "recognised minorities" feel comfortable in the uniform.

This includes religious groups, ethnic minorities and pupils with gender dysphoria.

It is asking parents, staff and pupils to express their views and to suggest any further areas for potential change.

However the school has confirmed a review does not mean they believe "significant changes are necessary" but says it is appropriate to "ask questions of ‘what we wear and why we wear it’."

In a statement, the school emphasised they are still committed to a uniform policy:

"Individualism is not the same as being part of a recognised minority and so once a uniform policy has been set all are expected to adhere to the requirements."

Methodist College also say a uniform provides a level of equality to all pupils regardless of background, and they "would certainly not want pupils to be under constant pressure to dress a certain way to ‘fit in’."

The cost of the uniform will also be scrutinised.

If changes are made as part of the review, parents, pupils and staff will be informed in due course.